Rocco Smith
Located in the heart of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg is one of those destinations that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
It was named the capital city of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 1812 and played an essential role in the American Civil War.
While the railroad and the Susquehanna River provided transportation of supplies, equipment, and other much-needed material, Camp Curtin served as the perfect training ground for many Union soldiers assigned to the area.
Today, Harrisburg is the 15th largest city in the state and is known for its vibrant arts and entertainment, nightlife, and culture.
Visitors enjoy festivals, outdoor events, trendy nightclubs, and the best restaurants. Read on for my list of the top Italian restaurants in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Gabriella Italian Restaurant
3907 Jonestown Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17109
Phone: 717-540-0040
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Gabriella’s is a sophisticated Italian restaurant located on Jonestown Road in Harrisburg. It is owned and operated by Chef Pietro Carioppolo and has been a local favorite since opening in 1997.
When Chef Pietro came to the United States, he dreamed of opening an Italian restaurant that would feature a stylish, modern Italian experience serving pasta, steaks, and ravioli along with the most exquisite wine list.
When dining at Gabriella Italian Restaurant, guests are served by a knowledgable, friendly staff that treats you like family; not to mention, the food is superb!
I recommend ordering the Sauteed Portobello appetizer. It is prepared with a stunning garlic wine sauce and cooked to perfection.
Mangia Qui
272 North St, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Phone: 717-233-7358
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Located only a short walk from the Susquehanna River, Mangia Qui is a quaint Italian restaurant that provides dine-in, take-out, and in-home delivery.
While the downstairs restaurant features a quiet, intimate place for a date night, the upstairs tapas bar, Suba, serves an extensive wine menu complete with savory Italian small dishes prepared with local ingredients.
The grilled grass-fed filet mignon melts in your mouth, while the sweet house-made desserts are simply delectable.
Pastorante
1012 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17109
Phone: 717-232-7050
Pastorante is a small, casual eatery that serves dine-in, take-out, and delivery prepared with the freshest Italian flavors.
Even though the restaurant only offers a small menu, the Spaghetti with Homemade Meat Sauce and Chicken Alfredo are top-notch.
Pastorante is located a short distance from the state capital complex and is open Monday through Saturday. Reservations can be made online, and take-out is always available.
Vino Italian Restaurant
6049 Allentown Blvd, Harrisburg, PA 17112
Phone: 717-545-9227
Vino Italian Restaurant is a small family-owned restaurant in Harrisburg. It provides a truly authentic Italian vibe serving large, savory dishes like homemade pasta, pizza, and chicken or veal Saltimbocca.
Located near several upscale hotels, guests can explore the Hershey/Harrisburg area during the day and stop for a few drinks and an intimate Italian meal at night.
When we visited, we began with a salad served with homemade dressing and steamed clams. Then, I had the chicken Cardinale for the entre.
In short, the food was amazing, and the service was top-notch. Not to mention, the wine was exquisite. Vino’s is open Monday through Saturday, and reservations are recommended.
Cork & Fork
200 State St, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Phone: 717-234-8100
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Cork & Fork is another Italian gem located only one block from the Susquehanna River. When dining at Cork & Fork, you will be treated like family while enjoying a cozy Italian atmosphere, fabulous food, and a great wine list.
I recommend trying the bruschetta. It was marinated to perfection, prepared with plum tomatoes, garlic, basil, lemon zest, and parmesan cheese, and the butternut squash ravioli was the best I ever tasted.
While specializing in small Italian plates, Cork & Fork also offers vegetarian and vegan dishes. In addition, it provides happy hour Monday through Saturday with some of the best budget-friendly food and wine options.
Reservations can be made online or by calling the restaurant directly.
Carley’s Ristorante
204 Locust St, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Phone: 717-909-9191
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Carley’s Ristorante is one of Harrisburg’s most popular Italian restaurants and piano bars in the city. It provides a warm, casual atmosphere that specializes in traditional Italian cuisine.
Guests are served beautifully prepared dishes like homemade pasta, pizza, and chicken parmesan while enjoying live music every day of the week.
After tasting some of the best Italian dishes in the area, the warm apple crisp with vanilla ice cream wrapped everything up in a big red bow.
The wine was impeccable, and the service was outstanding. This little restaurant is one of my favorite dining places in Harrisburg, perfect for date nights, family dining, or drinks with friends.
Sammy’s Authentic Italian Restaurant
502 N 3rd St #1112, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Phone: 717-221-0192
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Voted one of the best Italian restaurants in Harrisburg in 2016, Sammy’s Authentic Italian Restaurant has been a neighborhood family favorite serving traditional authentic Italian cuisine.
The homemade pasta is made with care, the service is fabulous, and the atmosphere is elegant, warm, and simply irresistible.
Sammy’s Authentic Italian Restaurant is the place to be if you’re in the mood for an intimate dinner for two or a night out with friends.
Vito’s Italian Ristorante
1150 Lowther Rd, Camp Hill, PA 17011
Phone: 717-737-4040
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Located in nearby Camp Hill, Vito’s Italian Ristorante provides a rustic Italian atmosphere perfect for all occasions, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, out with friends, or just stopping in for an authentic Italian meal.
Along with some of the most delectable Italian dishes, the restaurant also features a complete wine list made with local flavors whether your pallet craves sweet or dry style.
Vito’s is open seven days a week and offers dine-in or take-out. Guests can also place orders online, ensuring quick, reliable service.
Final Thoughts
When visiting Pennsylvania, Harrisburg should be on the list of top destinations to visit. Featuring tons of history, culture, and unique family-friendly activities, the city is also known for the amazing places to dine.
Harrisburg offers some of the best Italian restaurants in the area, whether you’re looking for small, quaint eateries or elegant upscale restaurants.
Did we leave out your favorite bar or restaurant? Drop a comment below and tell us why your stomping ground of choice belongs on this list.
Best Italian Restaurants in Harrisburg
- Gabriella Italian Restaurant
- Mangia Oui
- Pastorante
- Vino Italian Restaurant
- Cork & Fork
- Carley’s Ristorante
- Sammy’s Authentic Italian Restaurant
- Vito’s Italian Ristorante
